What is the difference between an allegory and a simile?

An allegory is a narrative or story that conveys a deeper moral, political, or philosophical meaning through symbolic characters and events, often extending throughout the entire work. In contrast, a simile is a literary device that makes a direct comparison between two different things using "like" or "as" to highlight a specific similarity. While allegories can encompass complex themes and messages, similes are typically brief expressions that enhance imagery or understanding in a single moment.